Restoring forest health through selective midstory removal and stand density management

Timber Stand Improvement

Per Project

Selective mechanical treatment of timber stands to improve the productivity, form, and long-term value of crop trees — favoring the trees that matter. NRCS Practice Code 666.

Get Free Estimate Call (386) 843-5266
4.8 on Google (97 reviews)
500+ Projects
Timber Stand Improvement project in progress

How Timber Stand Improvement Works

75–80% of private southeastern forestland isn't reaching its productive potential. Timber stand improvement (TSI) uses precision mechanical treatment to remove undesirable stems, open canopy gaps, and promote high-value crop tree growth. TreeShop's CAT track loaders with forestry mulcher heads selectively remove competing hardwoods and midstory vegetation while preserving your crop trees. The mulched material stays on-site as ground cover, protecting soil and suppressing regrowth. TSI is a cornerstone NRCS conservation practice (Code 666) eligible for EQIP cost-share funding — meaning the federal government may cover up to 75% of the cost.

We provide a free on-site estimate to confirm acreage and scope before any equipment rolls. No surprises, no hidden costs.

Ideal For

  • Pine plantations with competing hardwood encroachment
  • Timber tracts needing thinning for crop tree release
  • Hunting properties seeking improved stand structure
  • Forest health improvement on neglected timberland
  • EQIP-funded stand improvement projects (Code 666)

Our Process

01

Free Estimate

We walk your property in person — evaluating terrain, vegetation density, and equipment access to deliver an accurate quote.

02

MSA Agreement

Clear scope, timeline, and expectations documented in our Master Service Agreement before any equipment rolls. No surprises.

03

Production

CAT large-frame track loader with forestry mulcher head mobilizes to your site. Most residential lots are completed in a single day.

04

Final Walkthrough

Owner Jeremiah Anderson walks the finished project with you to confirm every detail meets expectations before we close out.

Equipment

TreeShop deploys CAT large-frame track loaders equipped with high-flow hydraulics and purpose-built forestry mulcher heads including Fecon and Diamond attachments. This isn't a skid steer with a brush cutter bolted on — it's production-grade iron designed specifically for forestry mulching work.

Large-frame CTLs provide low ground pressure (critical for Florida's soft soils), serious pushing power for dense vegetation, and the hydraulic capacity to drive mulcher heads at full RPM through 8-inch hardwood. The result: faster clearing, finer mulch, and cleaner results than undersized equipment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between timber stand improvement and forest stand improvement?
They overlap significantly. Timber stand improvement specifically targets increasing the value and productivity of merchantable timber by removing competing stems. Forest stand improvement is broader — focused on overall forest health, which may include wildlife habitat goals beyond timber production.
How does mechanical TSI compare to chemical treatment?
Mechanical TSI with forestry mulching provides immediate results — competing stems are eliminated in a single pass. Chemical treatment (hack-and-squirt) is cheaper per acre but takes 1-3 years for treated trees to die and doesn't address slash. Many foresters recommend mechanical treatment followed by prescribed fire for best results.
Is timber stand improvement eligible for EQIP cost-share?
Yes. TSI falls under NRCS Practice Code 666 (Forest Stand Improvement) and is one of the most commonly funded forestry practices through EQIP. Standard cost-share is up to 75%, and historically underserved producers may qualify for up to 90%.
How many acres can you treat per day?
Typically 1-3 acres per day depending on stem density, vegetation diameter, and terrain. Dense hardwood midstory with 6-8 inch stems takes longer than lighter brush and saplings.
Will TSI damage my crop trees?
No. Our operators are trained to work selectively around marked crop trees. The forestry mulcher head allows precision removal of individual stems without disturbing adjacent trees. We coordinate with your forester if you have a marked stand.
When is the best time to do timber stand improvement?
TSI can be performed year-round in Central Florida, but dormant season (late fall through early spring) is ideal. Competing hardwoods have stored most of their energy in their roots, and the lower water table makes ground conditions better for equipment.

Timber Stand Improvement

Free on-site estimate for properties across Central Florida. 500+ projects completed.

Get Free Estimate Call (386) 843-5266

All Services

4.8 out of 5 from 97 Google Reviews

500+ Projects Completed
Fully Licensed & Insured
Owner-Operated
CAT Equipment

Coverage

Timber Stand Improvement Across 32 Counties

Click any county for local terrain info and project details.

Volusia

Home Base

Flagler

30-40 min

Seminole

50-60 min

Orange

1 hr

Brevard

1 hr

Lake

1 hr 10 min

Osceola

1 hr 15 min

St. Johns

1 hr 15 min

Putnam County

1 hr

Marion County

1 hr 20 min

Sumter County

1 hr 20 min

Citrus County

1 hr 45 min

Hernando County

1 hr 50 min

Pasco County

2 hr

Hillsborough County

2 hr 10 min

Polk County

1 hr 30 min

Indian River

1 hr 15 min

St. Lucie

1 hr 45 min

Martin

2 hr

Okeechobee

2 hr

Highlands

2 hr

Hardee

2 hr 15 min

DeSoto

2 hr 30 min

Manatee

2 hr 30 min

Sarasota

2 hr 40 min

Charlotte

2 hr 45 min

Lee

3 hr

Collier

3 hr 15 min

Glades

2 hr 45 min

Hendry

3 hr

Palm Beach

2 hr 45 min

Broward

3 hr 15 min

Get a Free Timber Stand Improvement Estimate

Fill out the form and we'll respond within 24 hours with a detailed estimate for your property. No pressure, no surprises.

(386) 843-5266

Call or text anytime

office@treeshop.app

Email us directly

New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168

Serving 32 counties across Central FL

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Timber Stand Improvement · Per Project

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